Crystal Palace celebrated their maiden home victory in a major European tournament with a 3-1 success against AZ Alkmaar in the Europa Conference League at Selhurst Park.
The opening half was packed with drama as Jean-Philippe Mateta failed to convert from the spot before defender Maxence Lacroix rifled in a powerful strike from distance. Initially disallowed for offside, the goal was later confirmed following a lengthy VAR intervention lasting nearly three minutes.
Having been a constant threat down the right, Ismaila Sarr was rewarded for his persistence when he reacted quickest to a loose ball just before halftime, bundling in Palace’s second goal. It was the perfect response from the hosts after a shock defeat to AEK Larnaca in their previous European home outing.
Sarr steals the spotlight
The Senegal international was a menace for the Dutch visitors all evening, combining pace and sharp decision-making to torment the Alkmaar defense. His first goal capped a dominant first period for the Eagles, who peppered the away goal with a dozen attempts and five on target.
After the break, Sven Mijnans briefly reduced the deficit for AZ, catching Dean Henderson off guard with a precise low strike at 54 minutes. However, Palace’s two-goal cushion was swiftly restored as Sarr surged through on goal moments later and calmly finished past Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro.
That second strike took Sarr’s season tally to nine goals in all competitions and underscored his growing importance under Oliver Glasner. The forward’s work rate and finishing ensured the London side avoided any late scare in what was a confident display.
Glasner’s selection pays off
Manager Oliver Glasner opted for a full-strength line-up as Palace sought to make amends for their earlier setback against Cypriot opposition. His decision paid dividends, with his players responding emphatically and the home crowd treated to an energetic, attacking performance.
Will Hughes and Lacroix both went close before the breakthrough, while Mateta’s saved penalty proved to be only a brief setback. The French striker appeared unprepared when taking the spot-kick, striking tamely after seemingly missing the referee’s whistle.
The result marks Palace’s second win in Europe this season and lifts them to ninth in their Conference League group standings. With English clubs having enjoyed recent success in the competition, Glasner’s men have now positioned themselves among the potential contenders—though balancing European commitments with domestic fixtures will remain a key challenge.
